If you’ve never played FPL Challenge before, it offers Fantasy managers something different to the standard game mode. And, even after the FPL deadline has passed, FPL Challenge remains open for entrants right up until kick-off. No worries about teamsheets here…

Each week brings a new twist, so identifying the right players for this challenge is key.

In this article, Louis (aka FPL Reactions) breaks down the best picks for this week’s Challenge format – and then reveals the team he’s entering to try and push up the leader board.

• READ MORE: Fantasy EFL Gameweek 31: Scout Picks

WHAT IS THE CHALLENGE THIS WEEK?

TOP PICKS

GOALKEEPERS

With Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa players earning double points this week, it’s a rare occasion for managers to consider Jose Sa, even if you don’t think Wolves will keep a clean sheet. Even without a shut-out, Sa could still better most goalkeepers in the round ahead.

Emiliano Martinez is arguably the superior option, though. Martinez could also be super useful for those wanting to stack up on the Villa backline.

Outside of the Challenge framework, options including Brentford’s Caoimhín Kelleher against Burnley, Liverpool’s Alisson Becker versus West Ham, and Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen up against Nottingham Forest.

DEFENDERS

Aston Villa head into the tie against Wolves as favourites and in strong defensive form. For that reason, backing at least one Villa defender is a wise move, and their most offensive is of course Matty Cash, who has produced five attacking returns this season.

Those looking to further invest in the Aston Villa backline could struggle to pick between Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings. However, the latter recently found the net in Europe against RB Salzburg, so could well get the edge.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have been awful from a defensive perspective this season, but do play with a back-three system which gives their wing-backs potential. One of them is the corner-taking Hugo Bueno, who recently scored against Arsenal.

Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly versus Newcastle, and Arsenal’s Gabriel up against Chelsea, could be good alternatives.

MIDFIELDERS

Considering Wolves rank among the leagues worst defences this season, Challengers will look to target their backline this week. Of their options, it’s Morgan Rogers who should attract the most attention. Although frustrating of late, Rogers has produced eight goals and five assists this season.

Douglas Luiz could be another route into the Aston Villa attack. The central midfielder takes set pieces, which gives him multiple routes to points. He could even be on penalty-taking duty, which does add a lot more appeal in general.

The options are slim in the Wolves midfield. However, there are lots of great assets with huge potential to consider elsewhere. Among the names is Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon versus Everton, Manchester City’s Antoine Semenyo, and Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes v Crystal Palace.

FORWARDS

The obvious move for Challengers is to go for whoever starts up top for the visitors. Ollie Watkins has been nowhere near his best, so you do wonder if Tammy Abraham will get the nod after recent goals in league and cup.

Tolu Arokodare is also worth considering. Wolves have improved as of late and recent results reflect that. Arokodare has been one of their most lively attackers. Last time out, he amassed a huge 1.11 xGI (expected goals), although of course a big chunk of that was his missed penalty.

Erling Haaland of Manchester City, Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike, and Brentford’s Igor Thiago are excellent alternatives.

TEAM REVEAL

• I think Sa is a good shout. If he blanks he’ll still outscore most goalkeepers, and I also think you’ll need at least one Wolves defender to be safe.
• I have also gone for a mini Aston Villa defensive stack. I think if Aston Villa keep a clean sheet, having two is a good move.
• Morgan Rogers is the standout this week, against a very poor defence. For that reason, he’ll be my captain.
• I’m not sure about the minutes of Watkins and Abraham even if they start. I also really like both Thiago and Ekitike this week.

GAMEWEEK 27 REVIEW

• 57 points meant a 16k round rank, and a move from 534th to 456th overall.
• My big return came from Virgil van Dijk with a huge 22-pointer.
• I captained Salah, which didn’t go too well, and blanks from Palmer and Ekitike made me think I didn’t have a great round.
• Overall I can’t complain about last week, especially after breaking back into the top 500.

Good luck!